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Treaty Process

The First Nation signs a statement of intent with the BC Treaty Commission to negotiate a treaty. Metlakatla first signed the SOI in 1990 as part of the Tsimshian Tribal Council.

Stage Two— Preparations for Negotiations

An initial meeting was held to exchange information, discuss research, identify main issues of concern, and determine the readiness of all parties to begin negotiations.

Stage Three— Negotiation of Framework Agreement

This is the agreed upon agenda that identifies the issues to be negotiated, the goals of the negotiation process, and a timetable for negotiations.

Stage Four— Negotiation of the Agreement in Principle (AIP) <-- WE ARE HERE

Negotiations at this stage will form the basis of the Treaty. The Provincial government has indicated AIPs are subject to public review before ratification. The AIP lays the ground work for the Final Agreement negotiations—if the Metlakatla vote in favour of the AIP then we will move into the final treaty negotiations. The AIP is NOT legally binding.

Stage Five— Negotiation of a Final Treaty

The Treaty that is concluded at this stage will formalize the relationship between all parties, certain issues of a legal or technical nature are resolved or any outstanding items are re-opened. At the completion of this stage a final agreement will be signed that IS legally binding